Clark Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Clark Lake Dam, located in Durham, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that primarily serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Built in 1945, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 18 feet with a hydraulic height of 15 feet, providing a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Situated on the New Hope Creek-Tr river, the dam covers a surface area of 4 acres and has a maximum discharge capacity of 168 cubic feet per second.

Although not state regulated, Clark Lake Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and structural integrity. Classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its current condition as the last assessment was conducted in March 2002. Despite lacking emergency action plans and inundation maps, the dam continues to be a popular destination for outdoor recreation activities in the Farrington area.

With its rich history dating back over 75 years, Clark Lake Dam remains a picturesque landmark offering both relaxation and adventure for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature's beauty. As water levels ebb and flow, this beloved recreational structure stands as a testament to the enduring allure of North Carolina's natural landscapes and the importance of responsible dam management practices in preserving our environment for future generations.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

310

River Or Stream

New Hope Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.